Protect Your Brain: Why Genetic Testing is Crucial for Athletes in High-Impact Sports

If you're a boxer, MMA fighter, or involved in any high-impact sport, protecting your brain is just as important as building your strength. Head injuries like concussions are common in these sports, but what if you could predict how well you'll recover from a head injury? Genetic testing can help. Understanding your genetic makeup can reveal if you're more susceptible to brain injuries and how long it might take for you to recover.

The Key Genes: BDNF, SLC17A7, and APOE

Research shows that certain genes play a significant role in how athletes recover from concussions and traumatic brain injuries. The three genes to know are BDNF, SLC17A7, and APOE. Here's how they affect your brain after a head injury:

1. BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

The BDNF gene is crucial for brain health and recovery. However, some genetic variants of BDNF can increase your risk of concussions and worsen recovery times. A 2017 study found that soldiers with the BDNF Met/Met genotype (homozygous TT) were more likely to have a history of concussions, with 57.9% reporting one or more concussions compared to 35.6% with other BDNF genotypes.

Athletes with this gene variant also reported more aggression and hostility, personality traits linked to a higher risk of injury. If you carry this variant, you may be more vulnerable to concussions and slower recovery times.

2. SLC17A7 (Solute Carrier Family 17 Member 7)

This gene plays a role in how your brain handles glutamate, a neurotransmitter critical for brain function. After a concussion, having certain variations in the SLC17A7 gene can slow recovery and reduce motor function.

In a study of 40 athletes, those with the GG genotype of SLC17A7 were 6.33 times more likely to have prolonged recovery times (over 20 days). These athletes also scored lower on motor speed tests after a concussion, meaning they had slower response times and poorer coordination compared to others. Identifying this genetic variation can help you understand if you're more prone to longer recovery periods after head trauma.

3. APOE (Apolipoprotein E)

The APOE-e4 allele is the most well-known genetic risk factor for poor recovery after traumatic brain injuries (TBI). This gene is also linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, making head injuries even more dangerous for those who carry this variant.

Studies show that athletes with the APOE-e4 gene tend to have worse symptoms and a slower recovery after concussions. A 2018 study found that athletes with the e4 allele had more neurocognitive issues after a concussion and were less able to recover compared to athletes without the allele. If you have this variant, you're at a higher risk of impaired memory, slower thinking, and other cognitive problems after a head injury.

Why You Should Get Tested

If you're serious about your sport and your health, genetic testing can help you identify if you're more prone to brain injuries and how well you'll recover. This isn't just about preventing concussions; it's about understanding how your body responds to trauma and how you can take action to protect yourself.

By knowing your genetic profile, you can:

• Take extra precautions during training and competitions.

• Plan for a safer recovery after an injury.

• Understand why your recovery might take longer than others.

• Adjust your training and lifestyle to reduce your risk of long-term brain damage.

How Genetic Testing Works

Getting your genes tested is easier than you might think. A simple saliva test can give you powerful insights into your genetic makeup. The test will analyse key genes like BDNF, SLC17A7, and APOE, showing you how your body reacts to head injuries. With this information, you and your coaches can create a personalized plan to protect your brain and optimize your performance.

Conclusion: Invest in Your Future

Whether you're an athlete in boxing, MMA, or any high-impact sport, taking care of your brain is essential for long-term success. Genetic testing can give you the knowledge to take control of your health, reduce the risk of serious brain injuries, and help you recover faster when injuries do happen. Don’t wait until it’s too late—invest in your future and get tested today!

Reach out to VisionaryDNA to learn more about genetic testing and how it can protect you in your athletic career.